Rising Stars: Meet Nick Scacco of Scottsdale

Today we’d like to introduce you to Nick Scacco.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
Growing up in Illinois, I was captivated by the wonders of animals and nature, a fascination that has profoundly influenced me. A pivotal moment in my childhood was watching a documentary that featured a family of cheetahs clambering over a photographer’s car, sparking a lifelong awe for the wild. As I grew, so did my passions, with travel carving out a significant place in my heart. My initial solo journey took me from Illinois to North Carolina, winding through the breathtaking landscapes of The Great Smoky Mountains. Over the years, my adventures have led me to stay in National Parks across the West Coast, immersing myself in the untamed beauty and drawing inspiration from those majestic wilds for my art.

Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
When I was 23, I moved to Hawaii. I had just graduated college, didn’t have a penny in my name, and knew 1 person. This time of my life was a struggle and also an incredible adventure. When my wife and I first met, we lived in a 200-square-foot apartment. We both worked 2 or 3 jobs that gave us enough money to pay rent and groceries. We spent our time hiking or hanging out at the beach. We didn’t want for much. I remember when we could splurge to eat or go to the movies. It was such a fantastic treat. It wasn’t easy, but it was a simple life.

Thanks for sharing that. Please tell us more about your work.
I create art and woodworking. For my woodworking, I specialize in creating authentic Italian home goods. I use materials and designs that connect me back to my Italian roots. My grandparents were from a small town in Sicily called Caltagirone. I use all Southern Italian designs for my precision pizza-making equipment, some of which have roots in the Middle Ages. I also create watercolor and acrylic paintings of nature. I have always loved animals and nature. I feel at peace when I am outdoors. My art is a reflection of this love of wild spaces. I am most proud of my recent partnership with Badlands National Park. I drove cross country during the summer when I graduated from college and stayed in the park. It has mind-blowing natural features. To be creating artwork that will be featured in the bookstore over 20 years later has been a real full-circle moment for me. Scacco Matto distinguishes itself through a unique blend of nature-inspired designs, artisanal craftsmanship, and a deep-rooted Italian heritage, ensuring each piece of art, clothing, and woodworking carries a story of adventure, tradition, and sustainability.

What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
My most important lesson has been listening to my creative voice. For a long time, I wanted to create things for other people for their approval. It was a big switch to make things that I love because I love them and love to do them. I have much more creative energy when I find personal joy in the creation. I also have learned not to rebuke projects at the outset. Too much critique at the beginning can stifle a lot of creative work. Letting things flow initially and take the shape they want is better. Later on, after a few designs have come out, I rework them using critical voice and eye.

Contact Info:

• Website: scaccomattoart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scaccomattoproducts/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?viewas=100000686899395&id=100089541277730

Image Credits
Lindsay Scacco